Bluff Campsite, Trephina Gorge National Park, NT

Day 160 – 26th July 2011

Bluff Campsite, Trephina Gorge National Park, NT

This morning Andrew and Andy changed a front tyre on the van as the other day Maureen, who was sitting in front of our van, had actually picked up that the inside of the tyre had worn out dramatically. Andrew had been regularly checking the outside of the tyres which looked fine so we were quite surprised to see how badly the inside was worn. Good pick up as we wouldn’t want to experience a flat when driving. After this chore was done, we set off to do the Panorama and Trephina Gorge Walks (4.5km loop – 2h). The scenery is just amazing with wonderful views of the surrounding ranges and the gorge. Originally we were planning on returning to Alice this afternoon but this morning’s walk really made us want to do the Ridgetop Walk from Trephina Gorge to John Hayes Rockhole. Unfortunately Maureen and Andy had to keep going as they are running out of time so we had a quick lunch and said goodbye to them – Maureen and Andy don’t continue reading! It was a great walk with wonderful views all along the way over the East MacDonnell Ranges and beyond, especially at the Bluff Lookout. From John Hayes Rockhole we had to return to our van via the 8km road but this was an easy walk back. In total the whole 17km loop walk took us 5h. Back at the van we decided to go for a short drive to charge the battery and get some hot water for a shower so moved to the Bluff campsite in the park.